Lee Pinkas

With over a decade of experience across New York's most elite educational settings, Lee has developed a reputation as an exceptional writing instructor whose approach transforms how students engage with language and composition. Her academic background—a B.S. from Cornell in Policy Analysis and Management, an M.A. from Columbia's Teachers College, and an MFA in poetry—combines with advanced certification in special education to create a uniquely effective methodology that addresses both technical writing skills and authentic voice development.

What distinguishes Lee as an educator is her remarkable ability to customize writing instruction to each student's specific learning profile and interests. Through her work at institutions including the Bronx High School of Science, LREI, and the oldest Quaker school in the country, she has refined techniques that make writing accessible and engaging even for students who previously found it challenging. Her approach emphasizes scaffolded instruction—providing structured support that gradually transfers ownership to students as they build confidence and capability. This progression from guided practice to independent mastery has proven particularly effective for developing both analytical and creative writing skills.

Lee's teaching philosophy centers on creating environments where students feel "safe, supported, and self-confident." This emotional foundation allows for the intellectual risk-taking necessary for developing a strong writing voice. Her sessions typically include mirrored instruction (demonstrating writing processes in real-time), structured outlining techniques, and skill-based lessons, all while making space for the personal connections that build rapport and engagement. This balanced approach helps students discover that writing can be both rigorous and personally rewarding.

Beyond writing instruction, Lee offers comprehensive support in reading development, executive functioning, and mathematics through geometry. Her background as a published poet and writer enriches her teaching with authentic insights into the creative process, allowing her to guide students through both technical challenges and artistic discovery. Whether working with advanced writers looking to refine their craft or students who struggle with basic composition, Lee creates personalized pathways that lead to genuine growth and confidence.